INVESTIGATION OF ROCK MASS PROPERTIES AND BLASTING CONDITIONS FOR FRAGMENTATION ASSESSMENT

The evaluation of rock mass and explosive properties is essential for understanding and optimizing blast-induced rock fragmentation in mining operations. Fragmentation efficiency is influenced by several factors, including rock mass characteristics, blast design parameters, and explosive properties. While blast design variables such as burden, spacing, stemming height, drilling pattern, and explosive type can be controlled, geological characteristics of the rock mass are largely uncontrollable and significantly influence blasting outcomes. Effective fragmentation improves ore recovery, reduces energy consumption during crushing and grinding, enhances material handling, and lowers overall mining costs. Conversely, poor fragmentation can increase operational expenses and reduce productivity. This study evaluates rock and explosive properties for fragmentation characterization, with particular emphasis on the application of WipFrag software. The study examines the relationship between rock mass characteristics, explosive properties, and blast design parameters in determining fragmentation size distribution. WipFrag provides a digital image analysis approach for estimating rock fragment sizes and assessing blasting performance. The application of this software supports the identification of fragmentation patterns, evaluation of blast efficiency, and improvement of blasting practices. By integrating rock properties, explosive characteristics, and fragmentation analysis, the study provides a framework for optimizing blasting operations and improving downstream mining processes. The findings are expected to contribute to more efficient blast design, reduced processing costs, improved productivity, and sustainable mining performance.